Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish? This Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake is the perfect recipe for anyone craving a comforting, flavorful dish. With crispy bacon, creamy Cheddar and Gruyere cheese, and the subtle heat of cayenne pepper, this dish transforms Brussels sprouts into a savory masterpiece. Ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or any occasion, this oven-baked recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a side for roasted meats or want a tasty way to enjoy vegetables, this Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake delivers a rich, irresistible flavor. Easy Brussels sprout recipes, cheesy vegetable dishes, and bacon Brussels sprouts have never been this tasty!

Ingredients:

• 5 bacon strips
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 small shallots, minced
• 2 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• Kosher salt, to taste
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the Bacon: In an oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy and browned. Remove the bacon from the skillet, place it on a paper towel-lined plate, and set aside. Discard the bacon fat, leaving a small amount to coat the pan.
3. Sauté the Shallots: Return the skillet to the heat. Melt the butter and sauté the minced shallots for about 2 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
4. Cook the Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, followed by cayenne pepper and kosher salt. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour in the heavy cream, then top with the shredded Cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Crumble the cooked bacon over the top.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot.

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Tips

• Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven on a baking sheet at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, then crumble it over the Brussels sprouts just before baking.
• Even Cooking: Make sure to stir the Brussels sprouts occasionally while sautéing to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
• Texture: For a crunchier topping, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese on top of the melted cheese before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: If you don’t have Gruyere, you can substitute with Swiss cheese or Fontina for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
• Spices: For a more robust flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika instead of cayenne pepper.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add more vegetables like mushrooms or leeks for a vegetarian-friendly version.

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
• What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the Brussels sprouts mixture into a greased baking dish after sautéing, then top with cheese and bacon, and bake.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this cheesy Brussels sprout bake as a delicious side dish for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or a special occasion.
• It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and tender Brussels sprouts into one irresistible dish. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch while the creamy cheese melts perfectly over the vegetables. The addition of shallots and a hint of cayenne pepper takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a Brussels sprout lover or a newcomer to this veggie, this bake is a comforting and flavorful side that everyone will enjoy.